• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Milwaukee (1 hour 35 minutes) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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2. Holland, Michigan (2 hours 30 minutes) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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What you are reading: Day Trips from Chicago This Weekend


3. Kettle Moraine State Forest (2 hours 40 minutes)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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4. Lake Geneva (1 hour 40 minutes)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Lake Geneva

5. Naperville (40 minutes)

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6. Village of Oak Park (15 minutes)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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Best Attractions & Fun Stuff:


7. Six Flags Great America (1 hour)

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8. North Utica (1 hour 45 minutes)

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You are reading: Day Trips from Chicago Near Me Today


9. Chicago Botanic Garden (35 minutes)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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10. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore (1 hour)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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11. Old State Capitol State Historic Site (3 hours)

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
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12. Apple River Canyon State Park (2 hours 30 minutes)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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More for Adults, Couples and Families:


13. Starved Rock State Park (1 hour 35 min)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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14. Brookfield Zoo (25 minutes)

Category: Kids & Family Fun
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Keep reading: Day Trips from Chicago Near My Location


15. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (3 hours)

Category: Kids & Family Fun
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16. Anderson Japanese Gardens (1 hour 40 minutes)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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More Vacation Ideas:


17. The Morton Arboretum (35 minutes)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© The Morton Arboretum

18. Cantigny Park (40 minutes)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Cantigny Park

19. Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio (20 minutes)

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20. Huron-Manistee National Forests (4 hours)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Huron-Manistee National Forests

More: Day Trips from Chicago & How to Book Your Weekend Getaway


21. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens (2 hours)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens

22. Oglesby (1 hour 40 minutes)

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23. White River State Park (3 hours)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© White River State Park

24. Peoria (2 hours 40 minutes)

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Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

  • Question: Why might someone want to get away from Chicago for a day?
  • Answer: Even with all Chicago has to offer, sometimes it just feels right to get away for a day.
  • Question: What types of experiences can be enjoyed during a day trip from Chicago?
  • Answer: Exploring a sleepy river town, fishing in a river surrounded by towering canyon walls, skiing, or answering the call of your inner history buff, can leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed.

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